Bi-Modulus Columns

An Ideal Solution to Improve Virtually Any Poor Soil Type

An effective combination of two Menard techniques, Controlled Modulus Columns (CMCs) and Stone Columns work together to create this unique ground improvement approach. By combining the two methods together, they create strong vertical elements with a rigid inclusion topped with a compacted granular column.

How it Works

In combination, Controlled Modulus Columns (CMCs) and Stone Columns force the upper soils to become stable, especially in areas with high seismic activity. The thickness of the overall load transfer platform becomes reduced, and, therefore, it performs even better under extreme forces and in deeper and poorer soil types. This method has proven to be an especially cost-effective approach when used in areas where extreme seismic activity occurs.

Advantages

Increases bearing capacity
Improved stress distribution
Effective on many soil types: customized system solutions
Ideal for layered sites with granular soils over compressible layers

Technical details

  • Fill 
  • Organics 
  • Sand 
  • Clay 
  • Silts 
  • Treat soils up to 45m deep 
  • Bearing pressure of up to 400 kPa SLS 
  • 300-460mm-diameter CMC elements installed 

Bi-modulus Columns (BMCs) are installed with the concrete ending a minimum of 1m below the point where the granular top will be installed. Then, following the initial curing period, the granular top is installed right above the semi-cured CMC to fuse together, ensuring continuity through both elements and ultimately creating a stone column permeated into the CMCs "head."

Our Promise of
Quality Assurance

When you get a ground improvement proposal from us, you will always get straightforward pricing, so you will never have to worry about any unexpected project extras. The cost that we quote you is your project’s cost; it’s that simple. Furthermore, we will always work to meet and exceed all your expectations by performing tasks using the most thorough quality control measures possible to ensure a positive outcome for your project; this is our promise to you.

We invite you to review our testimonials below and see what makes Menard Canada different.

Trusted on job sites across Canada

From Vancouver to Quebec City, here is what project managers, superintendents and engineers say after working with our crews.

FRAM + SLOKKER

“Menard was very professional and got their work done quickly and without issues, well ahead of schedule.”

Chris Munnings

High Rise Project Manager

AECON

“Starting two weeks early and finishing two weeks early put us one month ahead of schedule.”

Zain Jessani, P.Eng.

Project Engineer

SKYGRID CONSTRUCTION

“The CMC method avoided deep shoring and dewatering while limiting excess soil on our site.”

Nicholas Schady

Superintendent

PEMBINA PIPELINE

“An excellent job installing the stone columns in extremely challenging ground conditions.”

Richard Gagné, P.Eng.

Project Manager

Contact us

Whether you are preparing a new project or need technical advice, our team is at your disposal. Contact us to learn more about our expertise and solutions.